A Dorset couple running a stall at a popular cider festival were tragically found dead in their campervan, leaving their four young children orphaned.
Inquest Rules on Festival Tragedy
Kayleigh and Christopher Coll, aged 38 and 45 from Blandford Forum, were discovered deceased in their privately-owned caravan at the New Forest Cider Festival on October 12. An inquest at Winchester Coroner's Court has concluded the cause was carbon monoxide poisoning.
The pair were attending the festival to represent their own company, Mystacoll's Spirit. The hearing was told a gas heater was later found inside the vehicle. Area coroner Nicholas Walker has adjourned the full inquests until July 22.
A Family Devastated and a Community in Mourning
Kayleigh and Chris Coll leave behind their heartbroken children: Shyla, Alex, Kaizer and Emily. In the wake of the tragedy, tributes described the couple as "vibrant, kind and devoted to their family."
Loved ones posted: "Chris and Kayleigh were much loved by everyone who knew them. Their loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of all who loved them."
A GoFundMe page established to support the orphaned children and their family has seen an outpouring of generosity, receiving more than £30,000 in donations.
Organisers of the fundraiser shared heartfelt words, calling Kayleigh "the most selfless thoughtful person" and Chris "an amazing man and father." They added: "Kayleigh and Chris were soul mates... They were the kind of couple that made people believe in love again."
Festival Organisers Extend Condolences
The organisers of the New Forest Cider Festival issued a statement expressing their profound sadness. They confirmed the incident occurred in a private vehicle and was not connected to the event itself.
"We were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic deaths of two individuals who attended the New Forest Cider Festival this weekend," they said. "Our thoughts and condolences are with their family and friends at this very difficult time."
The statement also noted that police had confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances and that the festival was cooperating fully with inquiries.
